CSM acquires LeadDog Marketing Group

Global sport and entertainment leader CSM continues to strengthen US business through major acquisition

CSM, a global leader in sport and entertainment, has announced today it has acquired LeadDog Marketing Group, the award-winning US-based integrated experiential marketing agency.

The group’s latest acquisition is a major step in CSM’s North America strategy, while significantly expanding its offering in the region, for both US and international clients and prospects.

The deal substantially increases CSM’s presence in the media and entertainment space, where LeadDog has enjoyed consistent growth across its capability set. The acquisition further develops and enhances the group’s client services in the US in areas such as sports marketing, experiential marketing, cause marketing, strategic communications, digital and interactive, partnership marketing, and brand promotions.

Based out of New York City and with presence in several top US markets, LeadDog has built a strong reputation for innovation, creativity and service across a broad client base, in categories such as sport, cause, entertainment, food and beverage, government, media, retail, technology, and active lifestyle. More recently LeadDog’s work for its clients has included strategic partnerships and activations in South America, Europe and Asia, including China and India.

Earlier this year LeadDog was named 2016 Best in Sports Event and Experiential Marketing by the SportsBusiness Journal, the pre-eminent sports marketing awards for North America.

Dan Mannix, CEO of LeadDog, commented: "We are thrilled to be joining CSM, which has the kind of nimble, challenger-mindset, reputation, philosophy, people and culture that will be inspiring to our team at LeadDog. This will enable LeadDog to bring new resources and bigger reach to our client partners, and help us continue to evolve, lead, and dream big in ways we've only imagined. There's no limit to the positive impact that CSM and LeadDog are going to make together."

Commenting on the acquisition, Harlan Stone, Chairman of CSM North America, said: “LeadDog has been an industry leader for years and we’re really excited to have them join CSM as they represent a critical piece of our US strategy and our enhanced global capability. Dan Mannix is a proven leader in our industry and we’re delighted to add his marketing skills, creativity, and his passion for the business. Alongside Jeff Shifrin and Rob McQueen, we think we have pulled together an unparalleled leadership team ready to help brands succeed.”